Hurd Park's Split Rock Offers Great Views

Hurd Park was named after the Hurd family of Middle Haddam, but could have easily been called Split Rock Park for a geological feature that can be seen for miles along the Connecticut River.

A 1,000-acre state park, it was created in 1914 shortly after the establishment of the State Park Commission. The park was the first along the Connecticut River and was created when the state purchased 150 acres.

The hallmark of the park is a yellow-blazed trail to Split Rock, a granite fissure on the northern edge of White Mountain. The Split Rock trail can be accessed along the main road near a picnic area and Carlson Pond. The trail runs along an old tote road and cuts through a forest made up mostly of oak, beech, birch and a few maple trees.

After a half-mile walk, the hills of Haddam and Middletown are visible as visitors reach the summit of Split Rock. After reaching the summit and its breathtaking vistas of the Connecticut River, a large sign points visitors in the direction of White Mountain, River Vista or Split Rock.

The view from River Vista is incredible. Pitch pines, moss-filled crevices and mountain laurel fill the rocky pinnacle. The Connecticut River sparkles past on its lazy journey to Long Island Sound. Another trail takes visitors down to Split Rock, a fissure 5 feet wide and 50 to 70 feet deep.

For those who like to picnic, there are plenty of tables at points along the main road. There's also a large playing field and picnic pavilion along one of the park's side roads. Carlson Pond is a great place for the kids to search for fish and frogs.

There are several parking areas within the park. The first is along Route 151 at its junction with Hog Hill Road and Hurd Park Road. The main entrance to the park is about a mile down Hurd Park Road. The road will take you into the heart of the park. Maps are available here.